Path: utzoo!utgpu!news-server.csri.toronto.edu!rpi!think.com!zaphod.mps.ohio-state.edu!sol.ctr.columbia.edu!lll-winken!telecom-request From: jjm@cbnewsb.cb.att.com (james.j.menth) Newsgroups: comp.dcom.telecom Subject: Using Halon in a Data Center Message-ID: Date: 20 May 91 19:12:30 GMT Sender: Telecom@eecs.nwu.edu Organization: AT&T Bell Laboratories Lines: 42 Approved: Telecom@eecs.nwu.edu X-Submissions-To: telecom@eecs.nwu.edu X-Administrivia-To: telecom-request@eecs.nwu.edu X-Telecom-Digest: Volume 11, Issue 382, Message 3 of 13 The original posting was regarding 911 centers that used HALON-tm systems and I hope this info helps. Our data center, and other areas where fires could harm expensive electronic equipment and water or chemical based systems would cause equal damage, are protected by HALON extinguishers. We have both portable and fixed, automatic systems. HALON does not 'use up' or otherwise react with oxygen to effect its suppression of fires. HALON, at a temperature of about 600 deg-F, breaks down chemically, absorbing heat and releasing inert compounds at the point of the reaction. This prevents further oxidation by insulating the flam- mable ingredients from oxygen. The process continues until temperature drops below 600, below which most chemicals will not re-ignite. Enough from the brochure except that there are different types of HALON and that is where the confusion over hazard to humans has developed. Our portable extinguishers contain HALON 1211 and it will displace, not use up, oxygen when sprayed in a closed area. It is inert at temperatures below 600 (such as 98.6) and will not hurt you if inhaled as long as there is enough oxygen left. You can safely spray HALON 1211 in a closed room but you should leave the room as soon as possible after application. HALON 1301, more expensive than 1211, is used in the automatic system and works at such low concentrations that it is not necessary to provide breathing apparatus, such as is required in closed areas protected by carbon dioxide. I have seen live (sic) demonstrations of HALON 1301 and it does not have an effect on most people breathing it in concentrations sufficient for extinguishing. Our Army M1 tank has a HALON 1301 system to avoid fires in the flammable environment inside the crew compartment. HALON's only problem is that it is a floro-carbon, (small amounts of halides - bromine, florine, chlorine may be released during reactions with violent fires) and can damage the ozone layer. There is not yet any ozone friendly substitute with these amazing and life saving properties. HALON can actually stop a vapor explosion in progress and is approved for use in the engine rooms of ocean vessels. Jim Menth AT&T att:lru3b!jjm